Minister for Primary Industry and Resources, Ken Vowles, will officially open the Gulkula Mining Training Centre at Garma Festival.

Minister Vowles said this project is significant as it is the first Aboriginal-owned mining operation and training centre on land scheduled under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act.

“This is a proud moment and a great achievement for the Gumatj people who are the Traditional Owners of the land that the mineral lease has been granted over.” Minister Vowles said.

“We understand that a secure and rewarding job is the best way to improve our quality of life, and that is why the Gunner Territory Government is investing in job creation right across the Territory, and supportive of initiatives that will generate work for all Territorians.”

“This project will open up opportunities for the Aboriginal people of the region.”

Gulkula Mining Company Pty Ltd, is owned by the Gumatj, and will mine bauxite from the Dhupuma Plateau Bauxite Mine on the Gove Peninsula, 30 km south of Nhulunbuy.

An associated training centre has also been established at the existing Garma Festival site to train and employ Aboriginal people from North-East Arnhem Land and other regions of the Northern Territory.

“Primary purpose of the training centre is to train Aboriginal people in the skills required to participate in the local mining industry.” Minister Vowles said.

Company plans to progressively develop mining operations building up to approximately 500,000 tonnes per year over the first 4 years of operation, within 5 years of the start of operations. The bauxite will be sold to Rio Tinto’s Gove operation where it will be processed and shipped to customers. This operation will mine bauxite for 15 years.

Mining operation will complement Rio Tinto’s Mining Training Centre, which was established with the Gumatj in 2014, by offering more ‘hands on’ experiences in real life mining operation.